Hama-rikyu Gardens Tokyo – Historic Tidal Garden & Teahouses

Hama-rikyu Gardens Tokyo – Historic Tidal Garden & Teahouses

Hama-rikyu Gardens is one of Tokyo’s most attractive traditional landscape gardens and provides a striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers of Shiodome that surround it. Located beside Tokyo Bay, the garden combines ponds, carefully shaped pine trees, teahouses and open lawns with views of the city skyline.

The garden began to take shape during the Edo period, when the area was developed as a residence and hunting ground for members of the Tokugawa family. Over time, successive shoguns expanded and improved the grounds, creating ponds, landscaped hills and places for relaxation and entertainment. Falconry was also practised here, as part of the garden’s role as both a retreat and a recreational estate.

One of the main features is Shioiri-no-ike, a tidal pond connected historically to Tokyo Bay. Its water level changes with the tide, making it unusual among Japanese gardens. Several traditional teahouses stand around the pond, including Nakajima-no-Ochaya, which sits on an island and is reached by a wooden bridge. You can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets while overlooking the water.

Other features include reconstructed teahouses such as Taka-no-Ochaya, shaded wisteria trellises, stone paths and carefully pruned black pines. The garden is also known for its old pine trees, including the famous three-hundred-year-old pine near the main entrance.

Hama-rikyu is particularly photogenic because of the contrast between its historic landscape and the surrounding city. Traditional trees and ponds sit in the foreground, while Tokyo Tower, office buildings and hotels rise behind them. This combination creates some amazing views.

Despite its central location, Hama-rikyu feels surprisingly peaceful. Wide paths make it easy to explore, while benches and quiet corners provide places to stop and enjoy the scenery.

How to Get There

Hama-rikyu Gardens is in Chuo City, beside the Shiodome district and within easy walking distance of several railway stations. The main entrance is the Otemon Entrance, reached across Otemon Bridge.

From Tsukijishijo Station on the Toei Oedo Line, the Otemon Entrance is about a 7-minute walk. Shiodome Station is also about 7 minutes away, while Shimbashi Station is approximately a 12-minute walk. The Naka-no-gomon Entrance is even closer to Shiodome Station, at around five minutes on foot.

If you are visiting the Tsukiji Outer Market, walking to Hama-rikyu is a convenient option. Allow roughly 10–15 minutes from the centre of the Outer Market, depending on your starting point and walking pace.

Entrance Fee

In September 2026, the entrance fee was 300 Yen for adults, 150 for seniors and free for children under 12.